Closing arguments in the murder trial of Charles “Tony” Boatwright focused Wednesday, August 26, on whether he was the aggressor in the shooting of Randolph “Kojack” Smith Jr. or acted in self-defense.
Boatwright, 57, is charged with first-degree murder and three firearm-related offenses in connection with Smith’s July 13, 2025, killing near the Liberty gas station in the 3900 block of Frederick Avenue.
Before closing arguments, defense attorneys Staci Pipkin and Andrew Jezic moved for an acquittal, arguing the state had not presented enough evidence. Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Charles Dorsey denied the motion.
The prosecution argued Boatwright was enraged after seeing the victim’s wife, with whom he previously had a relationship, with Smith. The prosecutor said Boatwright arrived uninvited with a loaded gun and mal intent.
“He was the aggressor when he showed up unannounced with a loaded gun,” the prosecutor said.
He also argued that even if Smith fired first, he was responding to Boatwright drawing his weapon.
Jezic countered that the state failed to prove Boatwright fired first and that the evidence supported his self-defense claim.
“It’s not a close call,” Jezic said, arguing there was no evidence showing Boatwright fired the first shot.
Jezic pointed to video showing Boatwright ducking and retreating, arguing that his actions were inconsistent with someone intending to kill.
“If he really did have the intent, he wouldn’t have ducked or retreated,” Jezic said.
The defense also cited a statement from Smith’s wife to police in which she reportedly said, “I think Kojak shot first.”
The jury is deliberating whether prosecutors proved Boatwright’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
